Boult busting out of his skin to get back to test match arena
Trent Boult has hit the ground raring to go according to one team-mate, as the Kiwi cricketers ramp up their world final preparations.
Boult is back in the reckoning to play this week’s second test against England thanks to a relaxation in British quarantine rules, another twist to the confused selection situation.
The left-armer arrived in England during the first test at Lord’s where his longtime new ball partner Tim Southee starred, and is set to reclaim his place at Edgbaston even though coach Gary Stead said this week the final decision has yet to be made.
Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson predicted on Gold AM’S Country Sport Breakfast that Boult’s intentions would be very clear.
“Knowing Boulty, he’ll be champing at the bit to get out there,” Jamieson told host Brian Kelly.
“Even his few days in the changing room, he was getting a bit angsty and wanting to get out there.
“He’ll be putting his hand up.” Boult’s selection for Edgbaston could give a clue to the composition of the side for the test final against India at Southampton next week.
Coach Stead has an earlier-thanexpected chance to reunite his world beating pace attack of Southee, Boult, Jamieson and Neil Wagner, as they get their plans in order for India.
The second test, which starts on Thursday night, was originally seen as being too soon for Boult, but Stead says he’s now “a chance” of playing this week.
“There are a few things that have changed since I said that a few weeks ago,” Stead said.
“The British Government has relaxed their quarantine stipulations here so Trent is out of isolation probably three or four days earlier than we’d expected.”
The pressure is on all-rounders Colin de Grandhomme and Mitchell
Santner, who failed at Lords, with a late push by some for the inclusion of specialist spinner Ajaz Patel.
But that would force test rookie Jamieson up the order to a more recognised batting position.
Jamieson, a schoolboy opener, has been a batting revelation but it is hard to know how a young player will react to the added pressure.
Whatever the makeup of the team for the world final, Stead may also choose to rest a key player at Edgbaston. — NZ Herald